The Nation Newspaper

Category: News Update

  • JUST IN: Four suspected kidnappers arrested in Edo forest

    JUST IN: Four suspected kidnappers arrested in Edo forest

    Combined security operatives have arrested four suspected kidnappers in the forest in Ewu, Esan Central local government area.

    They were reportedly arrested after a shoot-out with security operatives.

    Edo Police spokesman, Eno Ikoedem, confirmed the arrest and said the suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department.

    Read Also: NDLEA arrests 67-year-old, destroys over 11 tonnes of cannabis in Ogun, Edo forests

    She said a detailed statement would soon be issued.

    Details shortly…

  • APC candidates ‘ll emerge through consensus- Aiyedatiwa

    APC candidates ‘ll emerge through consensus- Aiyedatiwa

    As political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, Ondo Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has declared candidates of the governing All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state would emerge through ‘consensus.’

    Aiyedatiwa, at the APC stakeholders’ meeting at The International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome, in Akure, on Sunday, stated that he has not endorsed or promised any aspirants the ‘elective ticket’ of the party. 

    He noted that it had become necessary to clearly state his position in view of widespread insinuations in the political space ahead of primaries for elective positions. 

    Aiyedatiwa warned party memebers, especially those vying for the House of Assembly and National Assembly tickets against rumours, assumptions and political falsehoods capable of creating division within the governing APC in the state. 

    “Let me quickly correct this because we know in the political climate there are many falsehoods, lies, insinuations, and assumptions that fly around and try to create cracks and divisions. I want to emphasise that I have not promised anyone a ticket.

    “I have not promised anyone that I am giving you a ticket of State Assembly or National Assembly. I have not said I will deny anyone a return ticket,” the Governor declared. 

    Aiyedatiwa further added that the leaders of the party will participate in the process of picking candidates for elective positions in the state, reaffirming that the governing party will explore the “consensus arrangement.”

    He, however, urged party members to remain firm and disciplined, stressing that it is now in their hands to protect what the party has built and warning against actions capable of emboldening factions within the party. 

    Read Also: Ondo federal lawmakers pledge support for Aiyedatiwa, seek APC unity

    The Governor emphasised unity, noting that most national assembly members from the state were present at the meeting, while those absent had sent apologies due to national assignments.

    He said APC remained the only viable party in the state and urged members to work together to build Ondo State.

    Aiyedatiwa also placed strong emphasis on the APC e-registration exercise, describing it as critical to the party’s future. 

    He explained that the meeting was convened ahead of the January 31 deadline to mobilise leaders across wards and local governments.

    He infirmed, as of the day of the meeting, Ondo State had recorded 128,770 registered members, ranking third in the South-West zone, adding that there was still room for improvement.

    According to him, challenges associated with National Identification Number (NIN) registration were being addressed in collaboration with relevant agencies while logistics and decentralisation efforts were being strengthened to boost participation.

  • Tinubu opened political space for young Nigerians – City Boy Movement DG

    Tinubu opened political space for young Nigerians – City Boy Movement DG

    A pro-democracy group, the City Boy Movement (CBM), has hailed the growing inclusion of young and non-traditional actors in the country’s political space under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, describing it as a necessary step toward strengthening democracy and securing the nation’s future.

    The Director General of the movement, Oluwatosin Francis Shoga, stated this on Sunday in Abuja, while responding to critics, following the entry of business leaders and philanthropists like Obi Cubana into the political space.

    He reaffirmed that President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda has sent a clear signal that youth participation, entrepreneurship, and fresh perspectives are valued.

    According to him: “The inclusiveness of today’s political environment reflects democratic maturity. Nigeria’s future will be built through courage, participation, and unity—not fear of change.

    “Nigeria is at a defining moment in its democratic evolution, where long-standing calls for inclusion, fresh leadership, and new ideas are beginning to take shape.

    “For years, Nigerians, particularly young people, have decried political exclusion, recycled leadership, and limited access to decision-making.

    ‘Today, the increasing participation of young and dynamic Nigerians should not be seen as a threat, but as a renewal of democracy.”

    Shoga emphasised that democracy thrives when capable and willing citizens are encouraged to participate, regardless of their background.

    Read Also: Ndume hails Tinubu, Zulum for resettling terror attack victims

    He added: “Nigeria’s push toward national development requires broad participation from individuals who are patriotic, competent, and committed to the country’s growth. Discriminating against citizens willing to contribute would be counterproductive.”

    The movement also noted the surge in political interest sparked by the involvement of business leaders such as Obi Cubana, describing it as a positive development that has re-energised youth engagement.

    “Thousands of young Nigerians who previously felt disconnected are now paying attention, asking questions, and taking an interest in governance. That level of engagement is the foundation of a healthy democracy,” the statement read in part. 

    City Boy Movement further pointed out what it described as contradictions in public discourse, noting that while Nigerians have long criticised age-dominated leadership, resistance often arises when younger or younger-minded individuals step forward.

    The movement reiterated that political participation is a constitutional right and called on Nigerians to embrace a culture of openness and collective responsibility.

  • NOA lauds Funke Akindele on Box Office achievement

    NOA lauds Funke Akindele on Box Office achievement

    The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has congratulated actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele on the record-breaking performance of her latest movie ‘Behind the Scenes’, at the box office.

    The film has crossed the N2.2 billion mark at the Nigerian box office, becoming the first Nollywood film to achieve this milestone.

    According to NOA on X, the movie’s success extends beyond Nigeria, with earnings of over $111,256 in Canada and $190,249 in North America.

    The statement reads: “Funke Akindele Remains in Front with Behind the Scenes. Big screens, big stars, and even bigger numbers! Funke Akindele has done it again, and this time, she did not just break records, she shattered them.

    “Her latest movie titled “Behind the Scenes” has officially crossed ₦2.1 billion at the Nigerian box office, making history as the first Nollywood film ever to hit the ₦2 billion mark.

    Read Also: Funke Akindele makes history in Canada, North America with “Behind The Scenes”

    “The flex did not stop at home, the movie also showed modest global muscle, raking in over $111,256 in Canada and an impressive $190,249 across North America. From Lagos to Toronto, from cinemas in Abuja to theatres overseas — this movie had everyone locked in.

    “This big win solidifies the movie as the highest grossing Nollywood film of all time in Africa, the UK, and Ireland, makes her the first filmmaker to rank number one at the box office in Africa for three consecutive years, while also proving that Nigerian stories are going global”.

    This achievement marks Akindele’s position as a top filmmaker in Africa, marking her third consecutive year as the top-grossing filmmaker on the continent.

  • Oyetola’s wife rescues stranded Nigerian in Egypt

    Oyetola’s wife rescues stranded Nigerian in Egypt

    Wife of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs Kafayat Oyetola, has recused a 36-year-old Osun indigene, Titilayo Oluwaseun, who was stranded in Cairo, Egypt.

    The Nation recalled Oluwaseun called for government’s help in a video alleging that the person who facilitated her travelling seized her travelling passport and forced her into hard labour. 

    Mrs Oyetola intervened and ensured the retrieval of Titilayo’s passport as well as arranged for her flight back to Nigeria. 

    She arrived Nigeria on Sunday and was received by the Executive Director of Project Implementation at the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Remi Omowaiye. 

    Read Also: Oyetola, Oyebamiji and the Osun guber equation

    Addressing newsmen after her arrival, Omowaiye disclosed that the rescue was facilitated by Mrs Kafayat who had been an advocate of good life for women and children in and out of government. 

    He said: “When the wife of the Minister heard the predicament of Titilayo, she moved her foundation, Ileri-Oluwa Women and Children Support Initiative to investigate the matter and reach out to her in Cairo. It was established that Titilayo wanted to return to Nigeria. 

    “We secured her passport and also the flight that will take her back to Nigeria. Finally she is back in Nigeria today.”

    Omowaiye charged Nigerians to probe anybody offering to take them out of the shores of Nigeira so that they will not fall in hands those who will force them into hard labour and prostitution. 

  • JUST IN: AGF takes over Ozekhome’s alleged forgery case from ICPC

    JUST IN: AGF takes over Ozekhome’s alleged forgery case from ICPC

    The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) has taken over the prosecution of the criminal case brought against Mike Ozekhome (SAN) by the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC).

    The development however, stalled Ozekhome’s planned arraignment on Monday before a HIgh Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on the three-count charge filed against him by the ICPC and in which he is accused of among others, forgery.

    When the case was called, the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) said he was representing the AGF and informed the court of the AGF’s decision to take over the case from the ICPC.

    Oyedepo said the AGF was acting under his powers as provided in Section 174 of the Constitution.

    ICPC’s lawyer, Osuebeni Akpomisingha (who filed the charge) did not object to the take over of the case by the AGF.

    Read Also: Ozekhome: The heart of the matter 

    Former AGF, Kanu Agabi (SAN) who led a team of lawyers (which comprised 15 SANs) for the defence, also did not object the take over of the case by Fagbemi.

    Upon an application for adjournment by Oyedepo, which was not opposed by Agabi, Jusice

    Peter Kekemeke adjourned till February 24 for arraignment.

    A count in the charge reads: That you Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN (M) ’68yrs’ of No. 53, Nile Street, Maitama, Abuja, sometime in August 2021 or thereabout at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, while being a legal practitioner and senior advocate of Nigeria did make a false document, to wit: Nigeria passport A07535463 bearing the name of Mr Shani Tali with intent to use same to support claim of ownership of property known and described as 79 Randall Avenue, London NW2 7SX with intent to commit fraud and you thereby committed an offence contrary to section 363 and punishable under section 364 of the Penal Code CAP 532 laws of the Federal Capital Territory Abuja, 2006.

    Details shortly…

  • FRSC caution motorists on hazy weather, poor visibility

    FRSC caution motorists on hazy weather, poor visibility

    The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has cautioned motorists nationwide to exercise heightened patience following prevailing hazy weather conditions currently being experienced across several parts of the country.

    The FRSC Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, gave the advice in a statement by the Corps Public Education Officer (CPEO), Olusegun Ogungbemide, made available on Monday in Abuja.

    Mohammed explained that the current weather condition had resulted in poor visibility and reduced clarity on major highways.

    He emphasised that the current dust haze, occasioned largely by seasonal atmospheric conditions, posed significant risks to road users, particularly drivers whose vision may be impaired while driving.

    He noted that reduced visibility under such conditions increase the likelihood of road traffic crashes.

    The FRSC boss however, emphasised the need for deliberate caution and strict compliance with traffic regulations.

    He said that hazy weather conditions and dust significantly reduced visibility and reaction time for drivers adding that, at such speeding becomes even more dangerous.

    He therefore appealed to all motorists to slow down, obey speed limits, and drive defensively to avoid preventable crashes.

    “In view of the prevailing reduced visibility conditions associated with the dust haze, we advise all motorists to strictly comply with traffic regulations and adopt safe driving practices at all times.

    “Drivers are specifically urged to reduce speed and comply with prescribed speed limits, especially on highways affected by hazy conditions.

    Read Also: FRSC rescues 17 children from suspected traffickers in Abuja

    “Maintain safe following distances to allow adequate reaction time; and ensure that headlights, tail lights, and brake lights are fully functional and used appropriately, even during daytime where visibility is impaired.

    “In addition to that, they are to avoid dangerous driving behaviours such as wrongful overtaking, over-speeding, and distracted driving; and ensure windscreens are clean and wipers are functional to enhance visibility,” he said.

    The corps marshal also appealed to drivers of commercial vehicles to prioritise passenger safety by avoiding unnecessary speed and ensuring full compliance with road safety regulations.

    The FRSC boss reiterated the corps commitment to safeguarding lives on Nigerian roads and assured the public that its patrol teams were on high alert to monitor traffic flow, enforce compliance, and provide prompt assistance where necessary.

    “Motorists are encouraged to cooperate with FRSC operatives and report emergencies through the corps’ toll-free emergency numbers, 122,” he added.

    (NAN)

  • FCT teachers join ongoing strike

    FCT teachers join ongoing strike

    The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), FCT Wing, has directed all primary and secondary school teachers in the territory to join the ongoing strike action initiated by the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC).

    This strike action is expected to begin on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026.

    This is contained in a communiqué jointly signed by the union’s State Chairman, Abdullahi Shafas; State Secretary, Margaret Jethro; and Publicity Secretary, Ibukun Adekeye, issued to newsmen on Monday in Abuja.

    ​According to the communiqué, the decision to down tools follows a directive from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), instructing all affiliate unions within the FCT to escalate the industrial action.

    ​While the NUT noted initial reservations regarding the organisational approach of the JUAC-led strike, the union emphasised that the intervention of the NLC necessitated a unified front.

    ​‘’All teachers in FCT primary and secondary schools are to stay away from classrooms starting Monday.

    “Teachers within the city centre and surrounding areas are directed to converge at the National Industrial Court (NIC) on Gimbiya Street, Area 11, Abuja by 7a.m .on Monday.

    “The gathering is intended to show solidarity during the hearing of a court case instituted against JUAC,” it says.

    According to the communiqué, the union reaffirmed its commitment to negotiating with authorities until all outstanding demands specifically affecting teachers are met.

    ​”In pursuit of justice and to demonstrate our collective resolve, we must stand together. A people united can never be defeated,” the communiqué said.

    ​The union urged its members to remain steadfast while promising to provide updates as the situation unfolds.

    Read Also: Wike moves to end FCT Teachers’ strike, approves revenue deduction to meet demands

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on Jan. 19 began an indefinite strike over unresolved welfare concerns.

    The workers under JUAC have been appealing for urgent action to resolve the welfare issues affecting their morale and productivity.

    The president of the union, Mrs Rifkatu Iortyer, had earlier told journalists that some of the concerns raised included non-remittance of pension and National Housing Fund deductions and no payments or overheads.

    Others are unlawful restriction and centralisation of salary preparation and payment, and non-payment of officers of the Abuja Environment Protection Board and Social Development Secretariat engaged to enforce laws and policies.

    (NAN)

  • Sen. Gada dumps ADC for PDP

    Sen. Gada dumps ADC for PDP

    A leading All Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition stalwart in Sokoto state, Sen. Abubakar Gada, has returned to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    The former senator who made announcement at the end of a consultative meeting in Sokoto, said his decision was driven by the need to “reclaim and rebuild” the PDP in the state.

    Gada, who represented Sokoto East Senatorial District between 2007 and 2011 under the PDP, joined the ADC in 2025.

    ”I have played a leading and instrumental role in the conception, promotion, and stabilisation of the ADC coalition movement in Sokoto state.

    ”I also invested considerable time, energy, and political capital in building what was envisioned as a credible political alternative driven by the collective aspirations of the people.

    ” I leverage on modern communication tools and social media platforms to expand awareness and participation.

    ” It is in this spirit I brought the Northwest coalition representative Malam Nasiru El-Rufa’i to Sokoto state to engage with diverse political stakeholders in the state,” Gada said

    Gada explained that events have unfolded, prevailing on political realities revealed significant structural and leadership challenges within the coalition.

    These, he said, included issues of weak cohesion, absence of strategic clarity, and a noticeable lack of commitment at critical leadership levels.

    Gada added that after extensive consultations with political allies, stakeholders and grassroots leaders, and after careful reflection, he decided withdraw from the ADC coalition membership.

    ” I formally align with the PDP, a platform I consider more structured, credible, and people-oriented for advancing the collective aspirations of Sokoto state.

    Read Also: 2019: Sokoto APC vows not to recognise Sen. Gada

    ”The development was as result of statewide town hall engagements, strategic grassroots consultations, and high-level political interactions aimed at strengthening unity, coordination, and public confidence in the PDP,” he added.

    Gada reassured the good people of Sokoto state of his steadfast commitment to inclusive leadership, grassroots empowerment, constructive political engagement, and the pursuit of good governance.

    He pledged a stable and dependable political platform and remain resolute in working collectively toward unity, sustainable development, and shared prosperity.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Alhaji Hamza Gatawa, Hajiya Maryam Gade and Alhaji Tambari Tambuwal who spoke on behalf of participants praised Gada’s courage to strengthen the viable political movement toward rescueing Nigeria from all forms of challenges.

    (NAN)

  • First Lady tasks Nigerians on environmental protection

    First Lady tasks Nigerians on environmental protection

    The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu has urged Nigerians to accept environmental protection and cleaning as a societal responsibility.

    Tinubu made the call in Abuja on Monday in her message to commemorate the International Day of Clean Energy 2026, with the theme: “Clean Energy for People and Planet”.

    She said that the day was a reminder to all Nigerians of the shared responsibility to protect and preserve their environment.

    “I urge us all to embrace renewable energy and sustainable technologies as an essential foundation for survival, healthy living, and environmental stewardship.

    “Let us work together to build a greener, healthier planet for all.,” she said.

    Read Also: First Lady urges investment in inclusive education

    She also wished all Nigerians a happy International Day of Clean Energy.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the International Day of Clean Energy, annually marked on  Jan. 26, was declared by the United Nations General Assembly (resolution A/77/327).

    It is a call to raise awareness and mobilise action for a just and inclusive transition to clean energy for the benefit of people and the planet.

    (NAN)